Firearm training system

ABSTRACT

A firearm training system, comprising a firearm and a training module mechanically coupled with the firearm that operates to train a user to accurately fire a firearm to a target. The training module includes communication circuitry and at least one of an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and an attitude and heading reference system (AHRS). The system includes a feedback unit that communicates with the training module by way of the training module communication circuitry. The feedback module is configured to receive position information from the training module and to generate feedback data and user feedback in the form of a tone or light or speech. In one embodiment, the training module generates feedback for the user. Typically, the feedback is generated to indicate movement in relation to a desired aim point.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present invention relates to training devices and, moreparticularly, training devices for use with firearms and other sportingequipment.

2. Related Art

Training devices exist for all types of sports and sporting equipment.Golf, for example, is well known for having countless training devicesand training aids. Additionally, many devices exist that assist in aparticular function. For example, there are a great number of dogtraining devices including electronic collars that stimulate an animalto learn a desired behavior.

With respect to firearms, laser based devices are particularly helpfulin identifying a location that will be struck by a bullet when thefirearm is fired. While a laser may be helpful in establishing an aimpoint, however, many users will dip or raise the firearm aim point awayfrom the target as they fire the weapon. There is no feedback that mightbe used to improve firing accuracy. For example, a person often isunaware of a particular habit that may affect the accuracy of his or heraim. Generally, a need exists for a training system that is helpful intraining proper technique with respect to a particular piece ofequipment including but not limited to rackets, clubs and firearms.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to apparatus and methods of operationthat are further described in the following Brief Description of theDrawings, the Detailed Description of the Invention, and the claims.Other features and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description of the invention madewith reference to the accompanying drawings. In general, however, thepresent invention is directed to a training system and, moreparticularly, to a firearm training system that includes a firearm and atraining module mechanically coupled with the firearm that operate totrain a user to accurately fire a firearm towards a target. The trainingmodule includes communication circuitry and at least one of an inertialmeasurement unit (IMU) and an attitude and heading reference system(AHRS) to communicate with a feedback module in one embodiment of theinvention.

The system thus includes a feedback unit that communicates with thetraining module by way of the training module communication circuitry.The feedback module is configured to receive position information fromthe training module and to generate feedback data and user feedback inthe form of a tone or light or speech. In one embodiment, the trainingmodule generates feedback for the user. Typically, the feedback isgenerated to indicate movement in relation to a desired aim point. Inanother embodiment, the feedback unit generates feedback for the user.

In operation, the user enters into a calibration mode to establish adesignated aim point. Thereafter, in a training mode, user movement inrelation to the designated aim point is monitored and recorded. If themovement exceeds a threshold, either aural or visual feedback isgenerated for the user. For example, if the user dips the firearm beyonda threshold amount, at least one of a light, a tone (or tone pattern) orspeech is generated to indicate the same. As such, a user is reminded toconcentrate to avoid a particular habit thereby improving his firearmtechnique.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A better understanding of the present invention can be obtained when thefollowing detailed description of the preferred embodiment is consideredwith the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a firearm training system according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram that illustrates a training moduleaccording to one embodiment of invention.

FIG. 3 is a signal sequence diagram that illustrates communicationsbetween training module 18 and feedback module 30 according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 4-6 illustrate various embodiments of a training module.

FIGS. 7-10 illustrate a plurality of methods according to variousembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram that illustrates a feedback moduleaccording to one embodiment of invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a firearm training system according to one embodiment of theinvention. Referring to FIG. 1, a firearm training system 10 includes afirearm 14 and a training module 18. Training module 18 may be formed asa separate device that is connected to firearm 14 or it may be formedintegral to firearm 14. Training module 18 is configured to determineposition information 22 in relation to an aim point (designated bearing)26 and to transmit position information 22 to a feedback module 30.While the described embodiment illustrates a firearm 14, it should benoted that firearm 14 as shown here may include a traditional firearm ora firearm training device that does not actually shoot an associatedload.

Feedback module 30 may be anyone of a computer, a laptop, a handhelddisplay unit, a tablet, a cell phone with an associated trainingapplication, etc. Feedback module 30 and training module 18 are bothconfigured to communicate either over a tethered connection or awireless communication channel. A wireless communication channel maycomprise any one of a Bluetooth communication protocol channel, an IEEE802.11 wireless local area network (WLAN) protocol based communicationchannel, an infrared communication channel (e.g., IrDA), or a cellularcommunication channel utilizing any one of many different cellularcommunication protocols. Alternatively, the wireless communicationchannel may be according to a custom format developed for use betweenfeedback module 30 and training module 18.

In operation, training module 18 is operable to calibrate firearm 14 toestablish or designate aim point 26. In one embodiment, training module18 utilizes internal logic and circuitry to detect a specified movementto enter a designate mode. Thereafter, according to internally definedlogic, training device 18 determines that a current aim point 26 is tobe used as the designated aim point. Accordingly, position information(e.g., pitch, yaw, roll) is stored as the designated aim point. Inaddition to position information, acceleration information may be storedand/or used to determine the position information. The positioninformation for the designated aim point 26 is transmitted to trainingmodule 30 and may also be stored within training module 18. Thespecified movement to enter the designate mode may be any one of amovement pattern (e.g., 3 shakes in one or more specified directions) ordepression of a switch or button.

Once aim point 26 is designated, training module 18 utilizes internallogic and circuitry to detect a specified movement to enter a trainingmode. The specified movement to enter the training mode may be any oneof a movement pattern (e.g., 3 shakes in one or more specifieddirections or depression of a switch or button). Thereafter, trainingdevice 18 operates in a training mode and determines movement and/orposition information in relation to the designated aim point.Accordingly, position information (e.g., pitch, yaw, roll) is stored forsubsequent review and/or download to the feedback module 30 or otherdevice. In addition to position information, acceleration informationmay be stored and/or used to determine the position information. Theposition information 22 is then transmitted to feedback module 30 in oneembodiment of the invention.

In one embodiment, training module 18 transmits position information 22to feedback module 30 wherein feedback module 30 performs all processingto support the designate and training modes. In this embodiment,feedback module 30 determines what position information and aim pointinformation should be stored as the designated aim point. Feedbackmodule 30 also monitors and stores position information 22 in relationto position information for the designated aim point 26 to generatefeedback information for a user.

In another embodiment, training module 18 performs some processing. Forexample, training module 18 may be operable to store positioninformation to designate aim point 26 and to generate feedback to theuser in the form of a light or tone or tone pattern to indicate anundesired movement of the firearm while in a training mode. Even in thisembodiment, however, training module 18 is configured to transmit theposition information to feedback module 30 for additional processing andstorage to generate feedback data for the user. In yet anotherembodiment, if the training system is not being utilized with a feedbackmodule 30, the training module 18 generates all feedback in terms of alight, tone, sound, or sound pattern to provide specified trainingindications to the user. Moreover, training module 18 may includecommunication circuitry (wired or wireless) to allow for subsequentdownload of stored training data including user movement and positioninformation in relation to the designated aim point and/or firing of thefirearm.

Generally, a user often has one of many potential bad habits that affectaim accuracy. For example, a user may have a tendency to change the aimpoint by changing the pitch (moving the aim point downward and/or to theside) just prior to depressing the trigger to fire the gun or firearm.By generating position information that training module 18 transmits tofeedback module 30, such changes in aim point may be detected andidentified to the user to enable the user to concentrate on minimizingsuch undesirable movement.

In one embodiment, in addition to display data being generated so that auser may see exactly what movements occurred prior to and during firingof the firearm, tones are generated to indicate when movement hasexceeded a threshold amount. Training module 18, feedback module 30, orboth generates the tones. The feedback module thus supports thegeneration of real-time feedback to the user as the firearm is beingused.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram that illustrates a training moduleaccording to one embodiment of invention. Training module 18 includesone of an attitude heading reference system (AHRS) or an inertialmeasurement unit (IMU) 50 that further includes position determinationcircuitry 54 and acceleration circuitry 58. Historically, an IMUincludes a combination of accelerometers and gyroscopes for measuring acraft's velocity, orientation, and gravitational forces. IMUs aretypically used to maneuver aircraft, including unmanned aerial vehiclesamong many others. Recent developments allow for the production of IMUenabled GPS devices.

An IMU allows a GPS to work when GPS-signals are unavailable, such as intunnels, inside buildings, or when electronic interference is present.Data collected from IMU's sensors allow a computer to track a craft'sposition detecting changes in pitch, roll, and yaw using one or moregyroscopes and by detecting the current rate of acceleration using oneor more accelerometers.

An AHRS typically includes accelerometers and magnetometers on all threeaxes as well as a processor that calculates attitude and headinginformation. In contrast, an IMU delivers sensor data to an additionaldevice that solves the attitude solution. A form of non-linearestimation such as a Kalman filter is typically used to compute thesolution from these multiple sources.

As may be seen, therefore, whether the training module 18 includes anAHRS or an IMU 50 may affect the types of position information processedwithin training module 18 and what information is transmitted tofeedback module 30. For example, if training module 18 includes an AHRS50, then AHRS or IMU 50 transmits position information and may or maynot transmit sensor data from the accelerometers, gyroscopes ormagnetometers.

The determined position information and/or acceleration information asdetermined by the AHRS or IMU 50 is transmitted by communicationfront-end circuitry 62 as generated by communication processing logic66. Communication processing logic 66 generates communication signalsbased upon a communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth for Bluetoothcommunications) as well as according to an expected signal format asexpected by feedback device 30. While the described embodiment includesa Bluetooth protocol communication system, other known communicationsystems may be utilized additionally or alternatively.

Communication systems are known to support wireless and wire linedcommunications between wireless and/or wire-lined communication devices.Such communication systems range from national and/or internationalcellular telephone systems to the Internet to point-to-point in-homewireless networks. Each type of communication system is constructed, andhence operates, in accordance with one or more communication standards.For instance, wireless communication systems may operate in accordancewith one or more standards, including, but not limited to, IEEE 802.11,Bluetooth, advanced mobile phone services (AMPS), digital AMPS, globalsystem for mobile communications (GSM), code division multiple access(CDMA), local multi-point distribution systems (LMDS),multi-channel-multi-point distribution systems (MMDS), and/or variationsthereof.

Depending on the type of wireless communication system, a wirelesscommunication device, such as a cellular telephone, two-way radio,personal digital assistant (PDA), personal computer (PC), laptopcomputer, home entertainment equipment, etc., communicates directly orindirectly with other wireless communication devices. Here, any one ofthese types of devices may be used as the feedback module 30 of FIG. 1to communicate with training module 18.

For direct communications (also known as point-to-point communications),the participating wireless communication devices tune their receiversand transmitters to the same channel or channels (e.g., one of aplurality of radio frequency (RF) carriers of the wireless communicationsystem) and communicate over that channel(s). Here, training module 18and feedback module 30 tune their receivers to support point-to-pointcommunications in the described embodiments.

Each wireless communication device includes a built-in radio transceiver(i.e., receiver and transmitter) or is coupled to an associated radiotransceiver (e.g., a station for in-home and/or in-building wirelesscommunication networks, RF modem, etc.). As is known, the transmitterincludes a data modulation stage, one or more intermediate frequencystages, and a power amplifier stage. The data modulation stage convertsraw data into baseband signals in accordance with the particularwireless communication standard. The one or more intermediate frequencystages mix the baseband signals with one or more local oscillations toproduce RF signals. The power amplifier stage amplifies the RF signalsprior to transmission via an antenna.

Typically, the data modulation stage is implemented on a basebandprocessor chip, while the intermediate frequency (IF) stages and poweramplifier stage are implemented on a separate radio processor chip.Training module 18 may employ any of the aforementioned technologyfunctionally divided between the communication front end circuitry 62and the communication processing logic 66 to support operations asdescribed in relation to the various embodiments of the invention.

Training module 18 further includes training logic 70 and calibrationlogic 74. Training logic 70 defines operational logic that promptstraining module 18 to generate feedback for a user according to atraining mode as well as feedback to prompt user action. For example,training logic 70 may include logic to illuminate a light or generate atone or tone pattern based upon specified movement parameters while thetraining module 18 is operating in a training mode. Moreover, traininglogic 70 may define logic for entering and exiting the training mode.Calibration logic 74 includes logic for designating an aim point. Forexample, in one embodiment, if the user moves the firearm in a specifieddirection (e.g., to the right) a specified number of times (e.g., 3times), the calibration logic may determine that the user has specifiedthat he wants to designate an aim point. As another example, traininglogic 70 may include logic for prompting the user to fire according to atraining or competition mode. Training logic is operable to generatetones to indicate when to aim for calibration mode, when to shoot, etc.

Thereafter, calibration logic 74 operates in a specified manner todesignate an aim point. In one embodiment, when calibration logic 74 hasdetermined that the user wants to designate an aim point, calibrationlogic 74 generates a specified tone pattern and, after a specified time,determines an aim point by evaluating pitch, roll and yaw informationgenerated by the AHRS or IMU 50. This determined aim point is thenstored as a designated aim point. In one embodiment, the designated aimpoint is transmitted to a feedback unit such as feedback unit 30 of FIG.1.

Training module 18 may further include a speaker 78 and a light 82 toprovide feedback or prompts to the user according to the mode ofoperation. Training module 18 may also include a temperature sensor 86and one or more switches 90. In one embodiment, training module furtherincludes memory 92 and operational logic 94 that controls overalloperation of training module 18. Temperature sensor 86 generatestemperature reading that may be used by AHRS or IMU 50 as a part ofdetermining position information or as a part of the training logic.Memory 92 comprises, in one embodiment, a type of permanent memory toallow data to be stored between power cycles.

Any of the switches 90 may be used for initiating specified modes ofoperation and/or to power down or power up the training module 18. Inone embodiment, for example, one switch 90 is a power switch. Anotherswitch 90 is used to specify that the user wishes to operate in one ofthe training mode or the calibration mode. While only two switches 90are shown, it should be understood that embodiments of the invention arenot limited to two switches 90.

In the described embodiment of FIG. 2, training module 18 also includesfeedback interface 96. Feedback interface 96 includes logic andcircuitry to drive various feedback elements such as speaker 78, light82 and even laser 98. In one embodiment, training module 18 includes alaser 98 that may be used for targeting and to assist in designating anaim point. In another embodiment, laser 98 may also be used to providefeedback to the user. It should be noted that the embodiment of FIG. 2may readily be modified to exclude any of speaker 78, light 82, feedbackinterface 96 and laser 98. If, for example, training module 18 does notinclude feedback interface 96 or speaker 78 and light 82, then allfeedback for the user is generated solely by feedback module 30.

In operation, for example, if training logic 70 determines to generatefeedback (e.g., a light), training logic generates a feedback signal tofeedback interface 96 to generate the corresponding feedback. Based onone feedback signal, however, feedback interface 96 may generate severaltypes of feedback or feedback that requires more processing that merelygenerating a light. For example, in one embodiment, feedback interface96 includes logic and circuitry for generating speech based upon thefeedback signal. In this case, the feedback signal may merely be text orit may be a specified signal that prompts an associated speech.

The speech feedback may have a list of messages that correspond todetected conditions. For example, the speech feedback may indicate anyone of dropped muzzle, heeling to upper right/left, trigger jerk,unsteady hand, etc. In other applications, e.g., tennis racket, thespeech may indicate topspin, backspin, weak grip dropping racket, etc.

Speech is but one type of aural feedback. Feedback interface 96 may alsoinclude logic for generating specified tones and sounds to correspond tospecific types of feedback information. For example, a middle C tone maybe generated with varying amounts of warble to indicate various types offeedback information. In one embodiment, a steady C note indicatesproper form. A lower pitch with warble may indicate the aim is too lowand a higher pitch with warble can indicate aim is too high. Thefrequency of the warble may also be modified to provide indications suchas, for example, off-axis motion.

In the described embodiment, training logic 70 is configured to recordtraining data in memory 92 for subsequent downloading and review. Suchtraining data includes parameters such as time between shots, double-taptime, time from holster to draw to first shot, etc. The training datamay also include a list of detected user errors made by the shooterincluding heeling, recoil, anticipation, trigger jerk, etc. With respectto recoil, sensor accelerometers measure amount of recoil caused by eachshot. This data can be stored to indicate differing amounts of recoil todetect the effects of different types of load, shooter control of thefirearm (when does the shooter get tired?), different types of recoilsprings, etc. The training data may also be used to evaluate, for arifle, an indication of the steadiness of a platform. Finally, it shouldbe noted that the training data may include data from multiple sensorsat once.

FIG. 3 is a signal sequence diagram that illustrates communicationsbetween training module 18 and feedback module 30 according to oneembodiment of the invention. It should be noted that FIG. 3 illustratesmany different signals that may or may not be transmitted according todesign implementation. As may be seen, training module 18 transmitsaccelerometer/gyroscope data 100 to feedback module 30. Transmittingthis data allows feedback module 30 to determine the training moduleposition and, therefore, movement.

In at least one embodiment, training module 18 also sends position data104. This position data can include a determined position of trainingmodule 18. Training module 18 also sends bearing/aim data 108 and adesignate indication so that feedback module 30 can determine adesignated aim point. In one embodiment, training module 18 also sends adefinition of a data type 116 to identify any data that is transmitted.This signal/signal field may be optional according to implementation andmay not be required.

Training module 18 also transmits data in a reserved field 124. Thissignal is defined to allow for growth in the future without requiringsignaling changes. Additionally, feedback module 30, in one embodiment,sends a data request 128 to request specified data (e.g., designated aimpoint), a command 132 to command training module 18 to perform aspecified function, a designate command 136 to designate an aim point.Transmission of such a signal, of course, depends and functionalpartitioning of logic according to the capabilities of training module18 and feedback module 30.

FIGS. 4-6 illustrate various embodiments of a training module. In FIG.4, training module 18 attaches to a rail 150 that is a part of orintegral to firearm 14. In FIG. 5, training module 18 attaches to atrigger guard 154 of firearm 14 with a trigger guard mount 158. In FIG.6, integral training module 162 and, alternatively, integral trainingmodule 166, are formed and/or installed integral to firearm 14. Thelogic and functional blocks of training modules 162 and 166 are similarto training module 18. It should be noted that a training moduleconstructed according to the present embodiments of the invention may bemodified to have differing physical configurations from what is shown inFIGS. 4-6. For example, a training module 18 may be configured to beattached to a weapon with different attachment means. Such differentattachment means may include a strap that circumvents any part of afirearm. In one alternative embodiment, a strap is used to secure thetraining module 18 to a barrel of a firearm (e.g., a rifle barrel). Thetraining module may also be configured to be attached to a bottom of agrip or a trigger guard. In yet another embodiment, a training moduleincludes two separate portions that are communicatively coupled. A firstportion includes the IMU or AHRS 50 and a communication interface orcircuitry that conducts IMU or AHRS 50 data to a second portion thatincludes one or more of the remaining modules shown in relation to FIG.2. The first and second portions may be communicatively coupled by atether or a short distance wireless communication channel.

FIGS. 7-10 illustrate a plurality of methods according to variousembodiments of the invention. Referring to FIG. 7, a method for traininga firearm user includes calibrating a firearm orientation to establish adesired aim point (200). In one embodiment, the user makes an indicationthat he or she wishes to calibrate or designate an aim point. In oneembodiment, the user depresses a switch to make this indication. Inanother embodiment, the user moves or shakes the firearm and thetraining module in a specified manner or pattern to make thisindication.

The training module, upon detecting the specified motion or pattern,enters into a calibration mode. Thereafter, in a prescribed manner, thetraining module designates an aim point. In one embodiment, the trainingmode (either via the training module or the feedback device) generates atone pattern and, at a specified point, identifies and stores a pitch,yaw, and roll orientation (and, optionally, a position) to designate anaim point. This step can optionally include generating a laser beam toassist the user in determining a designated aim point.

Thereafter, once the user makes an indication that he or she wishes toenter into the training mode, the training module and feedback moduleenter into a training mode (204). Again, the user may make thisindication either by depressing an associated switch or by moving orshaking the firearm and the training module in a specified manner orpattern to make this indication. During the training mode, the trainingmodule generates position information and transmits the positioninformation to the feedback module (208).

The transmitted information can be any of the signals shown in relationto FIG. 3. In the present embodiment, for example,accelerometer/gyroscope data is transmitted. Additionally,three-dimensional position data can be transmitted. Thethree-dimensional position data may be in relation to an arbitrarycoordinate system or in relation to the designated aim point or both.Transmitting this information can also include transmitting bearing/aimdata (for example, as determined by a 3 axis magnetometer).

The transmitted information may be transmitted from a training modulethat is attached to or integral to the firearm. In an embodiment inwhich position data is transmitted, the method also includestransmitting updated position information or data (212). The method mayalso include transmitting acceleration information (216) and/or updatedthree-dimensional position information. Further, the method includesgenerating feedback data based upon at least one of the updated positioninformation and the acceleration information (220). Generating thefeedback data may include one of the training module or the feedbackmodule generating an aural or visual indication (224) that is based uponat least one of a change in the positional information and a change inthe positional information exceeding a specified amount.

Referring to FIG. 8, a method for training a firearm user includescalibrating a firearm orientation to establish a desired aim point(230). In one embodiment, the user makes an indication that he or shewishes to calibrate or designate an aim point. In one embodiment, theuser depresses a switch to make this indication. In another embodiment,the user moves or shakes the firearm and the training module in aspecified manner or pattern to make this indication.

The training module, upon detecting the specified motion or pattern,enters into a calibration mode. Thereafter, in a prescribed manner, thetraining module designates an aim point. In one embodiment, the trainingmode (either via the training module or the feedback device) generates atone pattern and, at a specified point, identifies and stores a pitch,yaw, and roll orientation (and, optionally, a position) to designate anaim point. This step can optionally include generating a laser beam toassist the user in determining a designated aim point.

Thereafter, once the user makes an indication that he or she wishes toenter into the training mode, the training module and feedback moduleenter into a training mode (234). Again, the user may make thisindication either by depressing an associated switch or by moving orshaking the firearm and the training module in a specified manner orpattern to make this indication. During the training mode, the trainingmodule generates position information and transmits the positioninformation to the feedback module (238).

The transmitted information can be any of the signals shown in relationto FIG. 3. In the present embodiment, for example,accelerometer/gyroscope data is transmitted. Additionally,three-dimensional position data can be transmitted. Thethree-dimensional position data may be in relation to an arbitrarycoordinate system or in relation to the designated aim point or both.Transmitting this information can also include transmitting bearing/aimdata.

The transmitted information may be transmitted from a training modulethat is attached to or integral to the firearm. In an embodiment inwhich position data is transmitted, the method also includestransmitting updated position information or data (242). The method mayalso include transmitting acceleration information (246) and/or updatedthree-dimensional position information.

As a part of monitoring user performance during the training mode, themethod includes storing the aim point information associated with thefiring of the firearm (250). This allows the recorded information toinclude not only movement while the firearm is being aimed, but tospecifically show aim points at firing. Additionally, upon firing thefirearm, the user may determine to update the calibration information(for example, if he/she hits the intended target). Thus, the methodaccording to this embodiment of the invention includes storing aim pointinformation at the time of firing to update the calibration information(designated aim point) with the aim point information at the time offiring (254).

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method according to one embodimentof the invention including the use of a laser. The method includesinitially entering calibration mode (260). As before, this may be doneby a specified user action (depressing a switch or a specifiedmovement). Thereafter, the method includes generating a laser beam toshow aim point in relation to a target (264). An aim point is thenstored as a designated aim point from which user movement will betracked as a part of storing movement data and generating feedbackinformation to the user (268).

The method then includes entering into a training mode (272) andstoring/updating aim point information (276). The stored/updated aimpoint information is compared to the designated aim point stored duringthe calibration mode or subsequently updated upon firing of weapon(280). In the described embodiment, the method includes generatingfeedback to the user when movement exceeds a threshold (284).

There are several noteworthy aspects in FIG. 9. First, the method doesnot specify what steps a training module performs and what steps afeedback module performs. This is because either device depending upondesign implementation with respect to functional partitioning mayperform many of these steps. Moreover, both devices may perform many ofthese steps. Additionally, it should be noted that these steps are notlaid out in detail here, but the specific implementation may be asdescribed in any of the preceding or subsequent figures.

FIG. 10 is a method that illustrates one embodiment of operation by afeedback device. The method includes initially receiving and storing aimpoint information which is to be stored as the designated aim point(300). This aim point is one that is established during a calibrationmode. Thereafter, the method includes receiving a training modeindication that may be initiated by a user in any of the previouslydescribed manners (304). Once in the training mode, the method includesreceiving aim point information that is generated periodically or uponmovement (308).

Once the aim point information is received in the training mode, themethod includes comparing the received aim point information with thedesignated aim point information (312) and generating feedback whenmovement exceeds a threshold (316). The method also includes storing theaim information. The illustrated method then includes displaying and/oruploading recorded information (320). Finally, in one embodiment, themethod includes the feedback unit updating calibration information tocorrespond with stored aim point information associated with the firingof the firearm (324).

FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram that illustrates a feedback moduleaccording to one embodiment of invention. Feedback module 30 includescommunication front end circuitry 400 and communication processing logic404 that are operable to communicate with external devices through wiredand wireless media to support training operations. Referring to FIG. 2,training module 30 is operable to communicate with training module 18 toreceive position information to support calibration mode and trainingmode operations. The types of feedback information received fromtraining module 18 depend upon whether training module 18 includes anAHRS or an IMU. This affects the types of position information processedwithin feedback module 30 and what information is received from trainingmodule 18. For example, if training module 18 includes an AHRS, then theAHRS transmits position information and may or may not transmit sensordata from the accelerometers, gyroscopes or magnetometers.

The determined position information and/or acceleration information asdetermined by the AHRS or IMU 50 of training module 18 is received bycommunication front-end circuitry 400 and processed by communicationprocessing logic 404. Communication processing logic 404 processesreceived communication signals based upon a communication protocol(e.g., Bluetooth for Bluetooth communications) as well as according toan expected signal format as expected by feedback device 30. Generally,feedback module 30 is configured to use any one of a number of differentcommunication technologies to correspond with the communicationtechnology for which training module 18 is configured to utilize.

Feedback module 30 further includes operational logic 408 that isconfigured to control overall operations of feedback module 30. Feedbackmodule 30 further includes training logic 412 and calibration logic 416.Training logic 412 defines operational logic that prompts feedbackmodule 30 to generate feedback for a user according to a training modeas well as feedback to prompt user action. For example, training logic412 may include logic to illuminate a light or generate a tone or tonepattern based upon specified movement parameters as indicated fromreceived position information while the feedback module 30 is operatingto support a training mode. Moreover, training logic 412 may definelogic for entering and exiting the training mode and for exchangingcommunication signals with training module 18 to support or coordinatesuch changes in mode.

In one embodiment, calibration logic 416 includes logic for storing aimpoint information as a designated aim point. For example, in oneembodiment, if the user moves the firearm in a specified direction(e.g., to the right) a specified number of times (e.g., 3 times), thecalibration logic may determine that the user has specified that hewants to designate an aim point. Accordingly, feedback module 30 maygenerate feedback to the user to prompt the user to aim at the target tocapture aim point information as the designated aim point. As anotherexample, training logic 412 may include logic for prompting the user tofire according to a training or competition mode. Training logic 412 isoperable to generate tones to indicate when to aim for calibration mode,when to shoot, etc.

Calibration logic 416 operates in a specified manner to designate an aimpoint. In one embodiment, calibration logic 416 has determined that theuser wants to designate an aim point, calibration logic 416 generates aspecified tone pattern and, after a specified time, determines an aimpoint by evaluating received pitch, roll and yaw information generatedby the AHRS or IMU 50 of training module 18. This determined aim pointis then stored as a designated aim point.

Feedback module 30 further includes a speaker 420 and a light 424 toprovide feedback or prompts to the user according to the mode ofoperation. Feedback module 30 also includes one or more switches 428which may be designated for power on/off the feedback module or forprompting modes of operation (e.g., calibration or training).

In the described embodiment of FIG. 11, feedback module 30 also includesfeedback interface 432. Feedback interface 432 includes logic andcircuitry to drive various feedback elements such as speaker 420 orlight 424. Feedback interface 432 is further configured to generatedisplays on an associated display device that may be integral to orseparate from feedback module 30.

In one embodiment, feedback interface 432 is configured to generatedisplay signals that graphically illustrate aim information. This aiminformation may be in relation to a graphical target. In another mode orembodiment, feedback interface 432 generates commands to indicate amanner in which the aim should be changed. Additionally, feedbackinterface 432 may generate display signals to display data obtainedduring any mode of operation. Feedback module 30 further includes memory436 that is used to store feedback data and information as well as usageand mode information.

In operation, for example, if training logic 412 determines to generatefeedback (e.g., a light), training logic generates a feedback signal tofeedback interface 432 to generate the corresponding feedback. Based onone feedback signal, however, feedback interface 432 may generateseveral types of feedback or feedback that requires more processing thatmerely generating a light. For example, in one embodiment, feedbackinterface 432 includes logic and circuitry for generating speech basedupon the feedback signal. In this case, the feedback signal may merelybe text or it may be a specified signal that prompts an associatedspeech.

The speech feedback back may have a list of messages that correspond todetected conditions. For example, the speech feedback may indicate anyone of dropped muzzle, heeling to upper right/left, trigger jerk,unsteady hand, etc. In other applications, e.g., tennis racket, thespeech may indicate topspin, backspin, weak grip dropping racket, etc.

Speech is but one type of aural feedback. Feedback interface 432 mayalso include logic for generating specified tones and sounds tocorrespond to specific types of feedback information. For example, amiddle C tone may be generated with varying amounts of warble toindicate various types of feedback information. In one embodiment, asteady C note indicates proper form. A lower pitch with warble mayindicate the aim is too low and a higher pitch with warble can indicateaim is too high. The frequency of the warble may also be modified toprovide indications such as, for example, off-axis motion.

In the described embodiment, training logic 412 is configured to recordtraining data in memory 436 for subsequent downloading and review. Suchtraining data includes parameters such as time between shots, double-taptime, time from holster to draw to first shot, etc. The training datamay also include a list of detected user errors made by the shooterincluding heeling, recoil, anticipation, trigger jerk, etc. With respectto recoil, sensor accelerometers measure amount of recoil caused by eachshot. This data can be stored to indicate differing amounts of recoil todetect the effects of different types of load, shooter control of thefirearm (when does the shooter get tired?), different types of recoilsprings, etc. The training data may also be used to evaluate, for arifle, an indication of the steadiness of a platform. Finally, it shouldbe noted that the training data may include data from multiple sensorsat once.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by wayof example in the drawings and detailed description. It should beunderstood, however, that the drawings and detailed description theretoare not intended to limit the invention to the particular formdisclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover allmodifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spiritand scope of the present invention as defined by the claims. As may beseen, the described embodiments may be modified in many different wayswithout departing from the scope or teachings of the invention.

1. A firearm training system, comprising: a firearm; a training modulemechanically coupled with the firearm, wherein the training modulefurther includes communication circuitry and at least one of an inertialmeasurement unit (IMU) and an attitude and heading reference system(AHRS); and a feedback unit in communication with the training modulecommunication circuitry wherein the feedback module is configured toreceive position information from the training module and to generatefeedback data.
 2. The firearm training system of claim 1 wherein thetraining module is attached either to a rail of the firearm, a barrel ofthe firearm, or to a trigger guard of the firearm.
 3. The firearmtraining system of claim 1 wherein the training module is integral tothe firearm.
 4. The firearm training system of claim 1 wherein thetraining module and the feedback unit communicate wirelessly using oneof a Bluetooth communication protocol, a wireless local area network(WLAN) communication protocol, and an infrared data association (IrDA)communication protocol.
 5. The firearm training system of claim 1wherein the training module is configured to transmit at least one ofposition information and acceleration information to the feedback unit.6. The firearm training system of claim 1 wherein the feedback unitcomprises one of cell phone, a tablet, a personal computer or anassociated hand-held controller.
 7. The firearm training system of claim1 further including a laser wherein the training module is configured todetermine a desired aim based on a user generated designate indication,wherein the user generates the designate indication by at least one of:depressing a switch; moving the firearm in a specified manner; andaiming the firearm at a target immediately after or during a prompt. 8.The firearm training system of claim 1 wherein the training module isconfigured to enter into a training mode upon one of detection that aspecified motion has occurred or detection that a corresponding switchhas been depressed or activated.
 9. The firearm training system of claim8 wherein, upon entering the training mode, the feedback module isconfigured to, at least one of: store feedback data including positionalinformation; generate an aural or visual indication that is based upon achange in the positional information; generate an aural or visualindication that is based upon a change in the positional informationexceeding a specified amount; and generate an aural or visual indicationto indicate a mode or state of operation to instruct a user.
 10. Thefirearm training system of claim 9 wherein the aural or visualindication includes audible feedback comprising at least one of aspecified tone or speech.
 11. The firearm training system of claim 9wherein the aural or visual indication includes visual feedbackcomprising at least one of activation of a light, generating a visualdisplay on a display element of the feedback module and generating adisplay on a remote monitor.
 12. The firearm training system of claim 1wherein the training system initially enters into a calibration mode todetermine a desired aim and subsequently enters a training mode togenerate the feedback data in relation to the desired aim.
 13. A methodfor training a firearm user, comprising: calibrating a firearmorientation to establish a desired aim point; entering into a trainingmode; transmitting position information from a training module attachedto or integral with the firearm to a feedback device; transmittingupdated position information; transmitting acceleration information; andgenerating feedback data based upon at least one of the updated positioninformation and the acceleration information.
 14. The method of claim 13further including generating an aural or visual indication that is basedupon at least one of: a change in the positional information; and achange in the positional information exceeding a threshold.
 15. Themethod of claim 13 further including generating an aural or visualindication to indicate a mode or state of operation to instruct a user.16. The method of claim 14 wherein calibrating the firearm orientationincludes retrieving aim point information from a prior shooting of thefirearm and updating the calibration of the firearm based upon theretrieved aim point information.
 17. A firearm training module,comprising: means for identifying position and acceleration information;circuitry configured to calibrate a firearm position in relation to adesired aim point; circuitry configured to support and operate in atraining mode; wireless communication circuitry operable to transmit theposition and acceleration information to a feedback unit.
 18. Thefirearm training module of claim 17 wherein the firearm-training moduleis configured to be attached to one of a firearm rail, a firearm butt, afirearm barrel or a trigger guard of a firearm.
 19. The firearm trainingmodule of claim 17 wherein the firearm-training module is configuredintegral to the firearm.
 20. The firearm training module of claim 17wherein the firearm training module further includes a training feedbackelement that is configured to generate at least one of an aural and avisual indication to provide feedback to a user of the firearm andfirearm training module.